Classic Ensaymada Bread: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Classic Ensaymada Bread is a delightful treat that combines the soft tenderness of bread with a delicate sweetness, often topped with butter, sugar, and cheese. Originating from the Philippines, this pastry is not just a feast for the taste buds but also holds a special place in many hearts. With its fluffy texture and irresistible flavor, it’s an amazing option for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.
If you’ve never tried Classic Ensaymada Bread, you’re in for a real treat. The very first bite will reveal a warm, airy interior that melts in your mouth, enhanced by the subtle sweetness and the unique topping. This delightful bread is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations. In this guide, you will explore the secrets behind this beloved Filipino bread, including why it’s a favorite among many, the preparation and cooking times, and detailed steps for making it at home. Enjoy making and sharing this classic treat with family and friends!
The charm of Classic Ensaymada Bread lies not just in its taste, but also in its versatility. You can savor it plain, enjoy it topped with various spreads, or even sprinkle a bit of cheese on top for a savory twist. Whether served fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, ensaymada is sure to brighten your day. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of this amazing recipe and discover how to create this delicious bread from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why Classic Ensaymada Bread is beloved by so many. Here are just a few:
1. Fluffy Texture: The bread is soft and airy, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
2. Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples that you might already have at home.
3. Culinary Tradition: Making ensaymada connects you to Filipino culture and traditions.
4. Versatile Toppings: Customize it by adding cheese, butter, or even spreading with delicious jams.
5. Perfect for Any Time: It’s a great breakfast option, afternoon snack, or even a dessert.
6. A Joy to Share: This bread is perfect for gatherings and celebrations, making it a beloved favorite in many households.
Understanding these reasons might inspire you to try your hand at making this amazing bread. Each bite of Classic Ensaymada Bread brings warmth, comfort, and a taste of home.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Classic Ensaymada Bread is an engaging process that involves some time and care. Here’s a quick outline of the total time needed:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Rising Time: 1 hour (or until doubled in size)
– Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes
In total, you should allow approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to prepare, bake, and cool your ensaymada. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen while waiting for the bread to rise!

Ingredients

– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
– 1/2 cup milk, warmed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup butter, melted (for brushing)
– 1/4 cup grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or queso de bolsa)
– 1/4 cup sugar (for dusting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Classic Ensaymada Bread is straightforward when following these steps:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and ensure you have them ready for easy access.
2. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk with instant yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, the remaining sugar, and salt.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and combine them with butter and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Mixtures: Add the yeast mixture and the wet ingredients to the flour mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
6. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
7. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
8. Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide into equal portions (about 12 pieces). Roll each piece into a circle and spread with melted butter.
9. Roll and Shape: Fold the circle in half, then roll it up like a jelly roll, creating a spiral shape (ensaymada). Place in greased molds or on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
10. Second Rise: Cover with a towel and let the shaped dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
11. Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
12. Bake: Once the dough has risen, bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
13. Cool the Bread: Remove from the oven and let cool in the molds for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
14. Add Finishing Touches: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with grated cheese and sugar while still warm.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll achieve the soft, sweet, and satisfying texture that makes Classic Ensaymada Bread so special.

How to Serve

To enjoy Classic Ensaymada Bread at its best, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Warm or Toasted: Serve it warm, or toast slices lightly to enhance the flavor and texture.
2. Toppings: Spread with extra butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam for added flavor.
3. Beverage Pairing: Complement the bread with hot coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a delightful experience.
4. Presentation: Arrange on a serving platter, garnishing with extra cheese or powdered sugar for a visually appealing display.
5. Freshness: This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
With these ideas on how to serve Classic Ensaymada Bread, you can create an inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Enjoy indulging in this wonderful Filipino treat!

Additional Tips

– Experiment with Toppings: Classic Ensaymada Bread is versatile, and you can get creative with toppings. Try adding a layer of cream cheese frosting for a sweeter treat or infusing the melted butter with herbs for a savory version.
– Perfect Your Dough: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add a little more milk. Kneading the dough well is essential for achieving that fluffy texture.
– Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps the ingredients blend more evenly, resulting in a better dough.
– Adjust Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check on your ensaymada a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
– Use Cheese Wisely: Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor. Traditional choices include grated cheddar or queso de bolsa, but mozzarella or even a tangy cream cheese can add an interesting twist.

Recipe Variation

Classic Ensaymada Bread is easy to customize. Here are some variations to consider:
1. Coconut Ensaymada: Add shredded coconut to the dough or sprinkle it on top with the sugar for a tropical twist.
2. Ube Ensaymada: Incorporate ube (purple yam) into your dough for a colorful and flavorful variation. Use ube extract or powder.
3. Chocolate Ensaymada: Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate variant and top with chocolate frosting instead of the traditional toppings.
4. Nutty Ensaymada: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds into the dough for an added crunch.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Classic Ensaymada Bread should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its softness. It can last up to three days but is best enjoyed fresh.
– Freezing: If you want to store them longer, wrap the baked bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. You can freeze ensaymada for up to two months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

Special Equipment

To make Classic Ensaymada Bread, you’ll need the following:
– Mixing bowls: For combining different ingredients.
– Rolling pin: To roll out the dough easily.
– Baking trays or molds: Use greased molds for traditional shapes.
– Kitchen towel: To cover the dough during rising.
– Wire rack: For cooling the bread once it’s baked.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do if my dough didn’t rise properly?
If your dough didn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or the wrong temperature. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you’re allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, this may change the texture slightly, making it denser.
Is it possible to make ensaymada without using eggs?
You can replace the eggs with an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or applesauce, though this may alter the texture slightly. Expect a less fluffy bread.
How do I know when the ensaymada is done baking?
Check if the tops are golden brown and if tapping the bottom of the bread sounds hollow, indicating it’s fully baked.
Can I use this recipe to make mini ensaymada?
Absolutely! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions for mini ensaymada. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller pieces will cook faster.

Conclusion

Making Classic Ensaymada Bread is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and produces a beloved Filipino treat. Regardless of your cooking experience, following the steps and tips outlined will guide you to create soft, fluffy, and sweet loaves. Whether you enjoy it warm or topped with your favorite ingredients, each bite embodies comfort and the joy of sharing baked goods with loved ones.

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